Elmer Tollef Alvstad, 97, Minot, formerly of Tagus, died Thursday, September 1, 2016 in a Minot Healthcare Center.

Elmer was born July 22, 1919 in Ree Township of Ward County, North Dakota the son of Ole and Guri (Lien) Alvstad. He was raised on the family farm and educated at country schools near Tagus.

Elmer was united in marriage to Mildred Rodgers on July 10, 1949 at Minot. Following their marriage, they made their home on a farmstead in Stave Township, where they raised small grains and cattle. They retired in 1988 and moved to Minot. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2009. Mildred died November 16, 2010. After Mildred's death, Elmer moved to Edgewood Vista in Minot, where he lived until May of 2014, when he became a resident of Minot Health and Rehabilitation.

Elmer was a former member of Hope Lutheran Church, Coulee. He had served on the Ree Township Board. Elmer enjoyed playing cards and tinkering with small engines, especially tractors. He was proud to have farmed for many years with his Series R, John Deer Tractor.

His loving family includes: sister, Christine Swenningson, Clancy, MT; brother, Glenn Alvstad, Minot; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral service : Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. in the Pioneer Chapel of First Lutheran Church, Minot.
Interment: Rosehill Memorial Park, Minot.
Visitation: Tuesday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.